At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our catering team to prepare and serve delicious meals for our amazing pupils.
- Company: Sherbourne Fields School, a caring and supportive community focused on special educational needs.
- Benefits: Receive training, including a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate, and work in a friendly environment.
- Other info: We encourage diverse applicants and prioritise safeguarding and welfare of our pupils.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while enjoying a dynamic kitchen atmosphere.
- Qualifications: Reliability, organisation, and a positive attitude are key; previous catering experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ per year.
At Sherbourne Fields, we’re proud of our caring, friendly and supportive school community. Our pupils are at the heart of everything we do, and we have a fantastic team of staff who work together to provide the very best opportunities for our children and young people. We provide high-quality education and support for pupils with a wide range of complex special educational needs. As an Outstanding school, we think our food should be outstanding too! Could you be part of our catering team?
We are looking for an enthusiastic, hardworking and reliable Catering Assistant to join our friendly catering team and help us deliver a great lunchtime experience for our pupils. Our kitchen is a busy environment, currently preparing and serving around 100 meals each day, including meals for pupils with a range of special dietary requirements. You’ll work as part of a supportive team, helping to make sure meals are prepared, served and delivered safely and efficiently.
Who are we looking for?
- Assisting with food preparation
- Preparing and organising service trolleys
- Distributing meals across the school
- Washing up and maintaining a clean and organised kitchen
- General kitchen cleaning
- Stock rotation and storage
We’re looking for someone who is reliable, organised and happy to get stuck in. You’ll need to work well as part of a team and be comfortable working in a busy environment. Previous catering experience would be helpful, but a positive attitude, reliability and willingness to learn are just as important.
Training and support
We’ll make sure you have the training you need to carry out the role safely and confidently. As part of your induction, you will complete a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate and Health and Safety Induction, alongside any other training relevant to the role.
Equal opportunity
Our workforce data shows that men and people from minority ethnic backgrounds are under-represented, we encourage applicants from these backgrounds to apply. This does not prevent individuals with or without other protected characteristics as set out within the Equality Act 2010 from applying for this post.
Safeguarding and background checks
Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undertake an enhanced criminal record check via the DBS, all relevant safeguarding and pre-employment clearances, and the receipt of two satisfactory references. Following recommendations from Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) for an additional pre-employment check with effect 1 Sept 22, please note, an online search may form part of this recruitment process.
Catering Assistant - Sherbourne Fields School employer: Coventry City Council
Coventry City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where social workers are valued and empowered to make a real difference in the lives of children and families. With competitive salaries, flexible working options, and a strong commitment to professional development, employees can thrive in their careers while enjoying generous leave and wellbeing support. Join us in our Outstanding Children’s Service and be part of a dedicated team that prioritises the welfare of both its workforce and the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant - Sherbourne Fields School
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Coventry City Council. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Coventry City Council
Don't be shy about reaching out to Coventry City Council directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant - Sherbourne Fields School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Coventry City Council and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Coventry City Council
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
